Malo lei lei! My name is Noona

If you're new here, welcome! I am the owner of Mafoa Photo and a photographer based in Sacramento, California with a deep love for capturing the real and genuine moments that make your story uniquely yours. The name Mafoa comes from my last name "Mafoa'aeata".  I wanted my business name to carry a little piece of who I am  and where I come from. In Tongan, Mafoa'aeata means the "break of dawn" which represents new beginnings or the start of something beautiful and I think life is a lot like that. We're constantly moving into new versions of ourselves. The seasons we're in don't last forever. The people we love grow and change. Chapters begin and end. Photography is my way of honoring some of those memories and the people who make life more meaningful.

Mafoa Photo officially began in 2024 but the camera came much earlier. I've been photographing and practicing my craft for over 5 years. Since then, one of the greatest blessings has been the amazing people I've met along the way while capturing their milestones.

My job is to create a space where you can relax and have fun! You don't have to know how to pose. That's what I'm here for! My sessions feel more like hanging out with a friend than a stiff photoshoot. I'll guide you, hype you up, make you laugh, and maybe even dance a little but beyond that, I want you to feel comfortable because I believe the best photos happen when you're simply just being yourself.

When I'm not behind the camera, you can usually find me at a Zumba class or out enjoying brunch + bottomless mimosas with my girls. I'm an Aquarius, a big Diet Coke lover, and  if there's a dance floor nearby and I hear Juvenile come on, there's a pretty good chance I'll end up there :)



Family, culture,  and community are a big part of who I am and I think that naturally finds it's way into my work.  Photography isn't just a job to me. It's one of the ways I connect with others and be part of the communities around me. I get to meet so many different people through this, hear part of their stories, and experience different traditions. That's my favorite part of all of this.

Thank you for making it this far. I truly love what I do! I promise to be fully present with you and create images that will last you a lifetime so if you're looking for a photographer who brings good vibes and captures the heart of your story then you're in the right place.